In summer this year our new diocesan synod will be elected to serve for a three-year term.
Please help to spread the word far and wide and let all know about the fothcoming elections, please download the,
Why should you offer yourself for this role?
Diocesan Synod Members help to shape the big decisions about our ministry and mission together, and are an important part of the leadership of the church in CofE Birmingham.
For example, already this year Diocesan Synod members have considered, advised and voted on matters concerning oversight areas, our work with children and young people, diocesan finance, our impact on the environment, ways to serve in the face of the BCC cuts, the diocesan action on racial justice, and learned about and celebrated our strong international links. The debates and conversations that happen at Diocesan Synod directly influence the policy and diocesan focus of CofE Birmingham.
We work in different ways. Sometimes there are detailed reports to read and pray about sent before the meeting, some of our work is in small groups on the day tackling difficult issues and challenges, often there are presentations and debate for the whole meeting to work on together. The most important thing that we do is to worship and pray together, we draw on traditions from across the diocese but always committed to listening carefully for God’s guidance.
‘The task of Synod is to advise the Bishop on matters he consults Synod members on. In our shared life together we encounter many significant challenges and joys; within our churches and as we reach out and hold the concerns and celebrations of people across the region, nationally and internationally. Please give serious consideration and prayer to whether God may be calling you to serve in this way’ – Bishop Michael
We are looking for people who are passionate about the ministry and mission of the CofE Birmingham. Synod meets three times a year, usually Saturday mornings and one evening, at a church with ample parking and public transport links, and refreshments are generously provided by the hosting church.
What do I need to know?
Members of Diocesan Synod are people who are,
- over 16 (if under 16, you could become a member of the Bishop Youth Synod**)
- willing to prayerfully considered the issues put to Diocesan Synod
- interested in regional current affairs n alert to the ministry and mission of the CofEB
- able to hold a diocesan view point
- actively listeners who enjoy contributing and discerning when to speak up for others
- communicant members and on the electoral roll of a church in the diocesan area
- not required to be a member of Deanery Synod
How do I apply?
If you would like to be nominated for election to represent your deanery then you will need to complete a nomination form, available from a Deanery Synod member in your parish (eligible clergy will automatically receive a nomination form).
If you are unsure who the lay members of your Deanery Synod are, then your vicar or PCC secretary will be able to put you in touch with them.
Further information about the nominations process and where to obtain a nomination form can be found by contacting elections@cofebirmingham.com.
**If you are under 16 and wish to know more about the Bishops Youth Synod please contact, EmmaS@cofebirmingham.com
We are looking for people who are passionate about the ministry and mission of the CofE Birmingham.
Please prayerfully consider if this is something God might be calling you to.
Key Dates 2024
| 1 May | Nomination forms issued to members of Deanery Synod |
| 29 May | Closing date for nominations (12 noon) |
| 7 June | Voting papers issued where there is a contested election |
| 28 June | Closing date for voting papers (12 noon) |
| 2 July | Counting of votes and Election Date |
| 15 July | Results will be announced by this date |
| 1 August | New Diocesan Synod take office |
| 6 November | First meeting of the new Diocesan Synod |
Resources
Please help to spread the word far and wide and let all know about the fothcoming elections, please download the,